Extended Family Weekend

October 10 - 13, 2025


YMCA Trout Lodge - Potosi, MO

Registration Deadline: September 10, 2025


C.O.P.S. Extended Family Weekend is planned for the surviving extended family members and their spouse/domestic partner* (21 years or older) of law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty, as determined by C.O.P.S. criteria. Eligible family members include: grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws (on surviving spouse’s side), and grandchildren. 


*Domestic Partner is defined as a long term committed legal or interpersonal relationship between two individuals who live together and share a common domestic life (i.e., not just a boy/girlfriend). 

Testimonial from a 2024 Extended Family Weekend Attendee:

“I knew of the retreat but honestly didn't think I needed it. Now I don’t know how I survived without it. Having peer support has been vital to me. Having someone who, unfortunately, has also experienced a similar trauma has been priceless. I think it takes someone who can truly relate to me to find comfort.”

What to Expect



After the death of an officer, extended family members often find ways to support those closest to the officer by setting their feelings aside. C.O.P.S. Extended Family Weekend creates a safe space for these family members to gather and process their grief in an environment that is removed from the stresses of everyday life.


This weekend offers a trusting atmosphere where participants can engage in both relaxing and challenging activities. Throughout the weekend, attendees have the opportunity to work with licensed mental health professionals who lead various group sessions and provide individualized counseling. For a detailed schedule of events, please click here to view our sample agenda for the weekend.


By the end of the weekend, our goal is that you will leave with a deeper sense of personal growth and valuable tools to help you and your family navigate your grief.



What is the Cost of the Weekend?

Your only expense is your travel to and from the St. Louis Airport if you are flying or to and from the YMCA Trout Lodge if you are driving. All lodging, meals and activities are provided at no cost. If you fail to cancel your attendance and you do not show up for the weekend, you could be subject to a participation fee for the following year’s weekend.

Session Examples:

  • It’s Meaningful to Me
  • Self-Care for Yourself and Your Relationships
  • Reflect and Rise: Sharing Challenges and Victories
  • Effect of Negative Media Coverage on Police Officers and Their Families
  • Say What You Mean and Mean What You Say, But Don’t Say It Mean

Travel Information

If you are flying: You should plan to arrive at St. Louis Lambert Airport (STL) between 9:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Friday, October 10. You will be met by a C.O.P.S. representative at the airport and transported to the YMCA Trout Lodge by bus. You will be transported back to the St. Louis Airport on Monday, October 13, by 11:30 a.m. Please be sure your return flight is AFTER 12:30 p.m. to allow time for check-in and security checks.


If you are driving: You will need to arrive at the YMCA Trout Lodge by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 10, and stay through breakfast on Monday, October 13. Meals and activities are planned; no late arrivals or early departures please.


Limited travel assistance may be available. Contact your local C.O.P.S. Chapter or contact the C.O.P.S. National Office for additional information.


Please Note: This program is held at a YMCA facility. All YMCA facilities are required to screen guests through the Raptor sex offender registry. Your information will be shared with the YMCA Trout Lodge (First Name, Last Name, and DOB) and checked in the national sex offender database. If you have questions about this information, please contact the Services Department at 573-346-4911.


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